As temperatures soar across southern Europe during summer, many travellers are turning their compass north in search of cooler climes. A road trip from Britain to the majestic fjords of Norway, towing a caravan behind your vehicle, offers the perfect antidote to oppressive heatwaves.
Combining the freedom of the open road with the comfort of your own home-on-wheels, this adventure promises breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, and an immersive travel experience for the whole family.
Caravan road trip to Norway -Why the Nordic Fjords?
Norway’s western coast is a tapestry of dramatic fjords carved by glaciers over millennia. These natural wonders offer stunning vistas, cool sea breezes, and temperatures that average around 13°C to 18°C in summer – a welcome relief from the 30°C+ highs recorded across much of continental Europe. Towns like Geiranger, Flåm, and Bergen are gateways to some of the most spectacular fjords, with plenty of well-equipped campsites that cater to caravanners.
Planning the route
The journey for your caravan road trip to Norway begins in the UK, typically from southern ports like Dover or Harwich. From there, you can either cross via ferry to the Netherlands, Belgium, or France, or use the Eurotunnel for a faster Channel crossing. Travelling through northern Europe is smooth and well-signposted, with countries like Germany and Denmark offering caravan-friendly facilities.
One popular and scenic route involves crossing from Hirtshals in northern Denmark to Kristiansand or Larvik in Norway by ferry. These crossings are efficient, comfortable, and ideal for towing vehicles. Once in Norway, the E39 and E16 highways lead to the heart of fjord country, with ample rest stops and viewpoints along the way.
Comfort on the road – caravan road trip to Norway
Driving long distances in summer can be tiring, particularly for families. A functional air conditioning system is a must, especially when passing through warmer regions in Europe before reaching Scandinavia. Modern caravans and tow vehicles often include climate control features that make travel comfortable even during mid-July.
When towing a caravan, especially over mountainous terrain, vehicle maintenance is vital. The total mass of the car and caravan is significantly larger than the car alone, so the brake discs and pads should be in perfect condition. According to autodoc.co.uk, brake discs must be inspected regularly for wear and replaced when needed to ensure safety on long descents and sudden stops.
Norwegian campsite experience
Camping in Norway is a delight. The country boasts a wide network of well-maintained campsites, often situated on lake shores or overlooking fjords. Facilities typically include electric hook-ups, clean shower blocks, kitchen areas, and sometimes saunas or kayak rentals. Many sites allow you to book pitches in advance, although spontaneous travellers will find that plenty of spots are available even in peak season.
Norway also practices “Allemannsretten” or the “right to roam”, which allows people to camp freely on uncultivated land, provided they respect nature and local rules. While wild camping with a caravan may require a bit more planning, it’s possible in many areas, particularly outside of national parks.
Entertaining kids on a trip
A caravan road trip to Norway can test the patience of even the most seasoned young travellers. But with some planning, it’s easy to entertain kids on a trip of this scale. Many caravans come with built-in entertainment systems or space to set up tablets with downloaded movies and games. Audiobooks and travel-themed podcasts can also help pass the time.
In Norway, the journey itself becomes part of the entertainment. Ferries between fjords, sightings of reindeer, visits to Viking museums, and hikes to waterfalls all offer rich, hands-on experiences. Many campsites have playgrounds, and some even organise family activities during the summer holidays.
The trend towards cooler destinations is backed by travel data. According to Eurostat, international overnight stays in Nordic countries increased by 11.3% in summer 2023 compared to the previous year, with Norway seeing a 14.6% rise. Caravanning, too, is on the rise across Europe.
Holidaying in Norway is becoming more popular than ever, with recent data highlighting a significant rise in adventurous travel modes. Caravan trips across Europe have seen a 9.2% increase from 2022 to 2023, while motorhome registrations have surged by 12.5%, reflecting a growing desire for flexible, road-based getaways.
Additionally, ferry use to Scandinavia has risen by 7.4%, making it even easier to explore Norway’s stunning fjords, mountains, and coastal towns by bringing your vehicle along for the ride.
Best time to go
Late June to early September is the ideal window. During this time, daylight hours are long – particularly in Norway, where the sun barely sets in the far north. Roads are free from snow and ice, ferry schedules are in full swing, and most attractions are open daily. Travelling in early July or late August can also help you avoid the busiest periods at campsites.
Sustainability and cost
Towing a caravan naturally uses more fuel, but the trade-off is less reliance on hotels, restaurants, and air travel. Travelling with your own kitchen, beds, and supplies can be both economical and environmentally friendlier in the long term. Scandinavia’s focus on sustainability also means access to EV chargers, recycling stations, and green energy at many campsites.
A two-week caravan road trip to Norway offers both freedom and great value. For a family of four (two adults and two children), the estimated total cost comes in at around £2,450. This includes approximately £650 for fuel and tolls, £500 for ferry crossings, and £700 for campsite fees. With self-catering helping to keep food costs at around £350 and activities and entry fees estimated at £250, it’s a budget-friendly way to experience Norway’s natural beauty while enjoying the flexibility of travelling at your own pace.
A caravan road trip to Norway from Britain is more than just an escape from the summer heat – it’s a journey into a world of towering cliffs, tranquil lakes, and family bonding. It requires some planning and preparation, but the rewards are immense.
Whether you’re gazing out over Geirangerfjord at midnight or barbecuing by a glacial lake, this northern odyssey is an unforgettable way to rediscover nature, freedom, and the joy of slow travel.
